Multi-Site Operations Manager

Job Summary: We are seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Operations Manager to lead and optimize the day-to-day manufacturing operations across our two growing production facilities. This role requires a dynamic leader who can seamlessly balance tactical execution with strategic planning, ensuring our operations scale effectively in step with rapid business growth. As a key member of the leadership team, you will play a critical role in aligning production activities with sales demand, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and implementing modern manufacturing technologies to enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and overall scalability. Our client is a fast-growing, mid-sized organization with a startup mindset, seeking an operations leader who thrives in high-growth, high-change environments and can build the systems, processes, and culture needed to support long-term expansion. Key Responsibilities: Operations & Production Management Oversee daily plant operations to ensure efficiency, safety, and compliance. Coordinate production schedules with sales forecasts and inventory demands. Monitor KPIs including yield, downtime, quality, and labor efficiency. Sales Collaboration Serve as a key liaison between Sales and Production teams to ensure alignment on customer demand, order fulfillment timelines, and production capabilities. Participate in S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning) meetings to provide production input and capacity planning. Provide real-time production updates and resolve operational constraints impacting delivery. Process Improvement & Lean Manufacturing Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies. Standardize procedures and workflows to reduce waste, improve output, and ensure product consistency. Conduct root cause analysis and corrective actions for quality or operational issues. Technology & Systems Integration Lead or support the implementation of manufacturing technologies (e.g., ERP, MES, automation, IoT sensors). Leverage data analytics to drive decision-making and improve operational transparency. Collaborate with IT and engineering to upgrade or integrate systems that enhance productivity and traceability. Team Leadership & Development Supervise and develop operations team members including supervisors, line leads, and production staff. Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement. Train staff on best practices, SOPs, and new technologies or systems. Qualifications: Education & Experience Bachelors degree in Operations Management, Food Science, Industrial Engineering, or related field (Masters preferred). 5+ years of progressive operations experience in manufacturing, including 2+ years in a leadership role. Proven experience collaborating with sales and cross-functional teams. Skills & Competencies Strong knowledge of food manufacturing regulations (e.g., FDA, USDA, GMP, SQF, HACCP). Familiar with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and manufacturing technologies. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent leadership, communication, and team management abilities. Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies is a plus. Preferred Certifications: Six Sigma Green/Black Belt PMP or similar project management certification (optional)